MEXICO CITY – Max Verstappen has been handed a 20-second penalty after two separate incidents with title rival Lando Norris at the Mexico City GP.

Norris was forced off the track as he tried to overtake Verstappen at Turn 4 on the 11th lap, but appeared to have been in front at the apex.

Norris remained in front as he rejoined the track, but was then forced off the track again as Verstappen himself went off the track and reclaimed second place at Turn 8.

“This guy is dangerous,” Norris told McLaren immediately afterwards. “I just had to avoid an accident. It’s the same as last time.”

Verstappen's aggressive approach against Norris at the US Grand Prix was a big topic of conversation at the start of the race weekend.

The stewards investigated both incidents separately and handed out two 10-second penalties to the championship leaders.

It could be a hugely significant moment in the title race as Verstappen is currently 57 points ahead of Norris but is likely to lose some positions as the race progresses.

“Then how about him, Turn 4? Is that okay then? “This is a stupid man,” said Verstappen when he found out about the second penalty.

The Dutchman served the penalty during his first pit stop.

Verstappen's incident with Norris helped Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc to a comfortable one-two.